Windows security checklist
In this article
Use this checklist to make sure you are taking advantage of all the ways that Windows can help keep your computer as secure and safe as possible.
Windows Security Center
Use Security Center to make sure your firewall is on, your antivirus software is up to date, and you have your computer set to install updates automatically. For more information, see Using Windows Security Center.
Windows Defender
Use Windows Defender to prevent malicious software, like spyware or viruses, from infecting your computer. For more information, see Using Windows Defender.
User Account Control
User Account Control prompts you for your permission before installing software or opening certain kinds of programs that could potentially harm your computer or make it vulnerable to security threats. For more information, see What is User Account Control?
Back up and Restore
It's important to back up your files and settings regularly so that if you get a virus or have any kind of hardware failure, you can recover your files. For more information, see Back up your files.
Windows Update
Set Windows Update to download and install the latest updates for your computer automatically. For more information, see Install Windows updates.
Windows Firewall
Use Windows Firewall to help prevent hackers and unwanted software from gaining access to your computer through the Internet. For more information, see Windows Firewall: recommended links.
Firewall
Software or hardware that can help protect a computer from hackers or malicious software. A firewall helps prevent malicious software (such as worms) from gaining access to a computer through a network or over the Internet, and helps prevent a computer from sending malicious software to other computers.
Malicious software
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Malicious software
Software designed to deliberately harm your computer. For example, viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are malicious software. Also known as malware.
Virus
A malicious computer program designed specifically to replicate itself and spread from computer to computer. A virus may damage hardware, software, or data.
Help and How-to
